Members quit EMA after CEO saga

Former EMA CEO Alasdair Thompson being interviewed by Campbell Live reporter Mihingarangi Forbes, 23 June 2011. Photo / Campbell Live

Former business boss Alasdair Thompson's controversial comments on gender pay equity sparked the resignation of 16 Employers and Manufacturers Association members - including eight who agreed with him.

The EMA board dismissed Mr Thompson on July 6, citing his conduct in June 23 interviews where he suggested women's "monthly sick problems" made them less productive.

His comments sparked an angry outcry across the country, as unions called for him to be fired and large employers pulled out of the organisation.

Today acting EMA chairman Bruce Goldsworthy today told Radio New Zealand eight businesses had pulled out of the association in protest at Mr Thompson's statements.

When the EMA board dismissed Mr Thompson on July 6, a further eight members withdrew, Mr Goldsworthy said.

EMA spokesman Gilbert Peterson today said the last eight businesses to withdraw from the association thought its decision to dismiss Mr Thompson was unjustified.

"They didn't want to support an organisation that dismisses its CEO for making comments they consider reasonable."

He would not give a list of the businesses that had quit the association.

Mr Goldsworthy also told Radio New Zealand the board would likely have come to an agreement with Mr Thompson over compensation for his dismissal.